Each January, millions of Americans commit to New Year’s resolutions, most centered on improving their health. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of U.S. adults set resolutions, yet participation in gyms and wellness programs often declines sharply by February. This year, one local health and fitness expert is encouraging a different approach: rebuilding, not resetting.
“We need to stop treating our bodies like they’re broken just because the holidays are over,” said Jennifer Scherer, registered dietitian nutritionist, medical exercise specialist, certified personal trainer, master-level Pilates instructor and owner of Fredericksburg Fitness Studio. “A rebuild honors where you are today and focuses on making thoughtful improvements that support long-term health and not quick fixes.”
Rather than starting over every January, Scherer advocates for strengthening the systems that support wellness year-round. By focusing on rebuilding foundational health habits, individuals can experience lasting improvements in how they feel, function, and perform.
Key areas to prioritize during a health rebuild include:
• Restoring MuscleMuscle-strengthening activities play a critical role in quality of life and longevity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that just two hours of muscle-strengthening activity per week is associated with reduced all-cause mortality, independent of aerobic exercise. Strength training also supports healthy blood pressure, glucose regulation, and joint health.
• Improving MetabolismMetabolism drives energy production, cellular repair, and overall vitality. Rebuilding metabolic health involves consistent strength training, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and supportive lifestyle habits that create sustainable results.
• Increasing EnergyLow energy often prevents people from maintaining healthy routines. Rebuilding energy means nourishing the body with quality food, moving regularly, prioritizing sleep, managing stress, spending time outdoors, practicing deep breathing, and intentionally incorporating rest and recovery.
• Improving Diet QualityRather than restrictive dieting, Scherer encourages focusing on consistency and nourishment. A rebuild includes prioritizing high-quality protein, increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and choosing foods that help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Mindful Mindset ShiftsWellness is driven as much by mindset as movement. Positive self-talk, appropriate challenge, social support, and adopting a growth mindset all contribute to sustainable change. Exploring new skills or experiences can further support mental resilience.
“Short-term solutions keep people stuck on a cycle of starting over,” Scherer added. “This is the year to build something that lasts. When health becomes a foundation instead of a resolution, progress becomes more meaningful and more sustainable.”
At Fredericksburg Fitness Studio, clients work with a registered dietitian nutritionist and experienced movement professionals to develop personalized, realistic plans. Services are offered both in person and virtually and include comprehensive assessments of medical history, nutrition habits, movement patterns, and lifestyle factors. We provide virtual nutrition therapy, medical nutrition therapy, and tailored meal planning through EatLove Pro—delivering scalable support with built-in accountability at every level.
The boutique studio also offers semi-private and private training focused on Pilates, strength training, mobility, fall prevention, and medical exercise. With two Fredericksburg locations, the studio provides a highly personalized environment, luxury amenities, and expert instruction across reformer, chair, tower, CoreAlign, and master-level Pilates equipment. Fredericksburg Fitness Studio is proud to be a Medicare provider.
In addition, Jennifer Scherer and her husband, Jeff Smith, co-host the Fitness & Finance Radio podcast, which explores the intersection of physical wellness and financial planning for retirement, highlighting how long-term health impacts long-term financial security.
To learn more about Fredericksburg Fitness Studio, visit https://www.fburgfitness.com. To listen to Fitness & Finance Radio, visit https://fitnessfinancepro.com.
